Performing Arts
Mobile has one of the Gulf Coast’s liveliest performing arts scenes. Locally produced opera, symphony, dance and theater, along with traveling shows, give Mobilians a variety of performance options nearly any week of the year.
Performing Arts Groups
Mobile Opera presents two major opera productions each year, along with a variety of educational programs.
Mobile Symphony offers a full season of classical and pops concerts at the Saenger Theatre, student concerts and in-school programs. The symphony has become known as one of the nation’s best regional orchestras.
Mobile Ballet presents three major productions each year, featuring its own company and soloists from some of the world’s best dance companies. It also operates a dance academy.
Several local theater groups are active in the community, many with their own theater homes. The Mobile Theatre Guild has won acclaim at several international competitions. The Joe Jefferson Players is Alabama’s oldest dramatic company.
The Playhouse in the Park trains Mobile’s next theater generation at its theater in Langan Park. Another organization offering opportunities for young performers is Drama Camp Productions at Sunny Side Theater.
The Mobile Pops and other music groups, including Mobile Piano Ensemble, present concerts at various locations throughout the year. Mobile’s Singing Children have performed throughout the nation and is a popular outlet for talented youth.
Theaters and Art Centers
The historic Saenger Theatre attracts a number of the nation’s top touring acts. The ornate 1,800-seat theater is also home to the Mobile Symphony.
The Mobile Civic Center is a multipurpose complex including an arena, theater and exhibit hall. The theater is home to Mobile Opera, Mobile Ballet and traveling productions.
Bernheim Hall, renovated as part of the expansion of the Ben May Main Library of the Mobile Public Library, offers a more intimate setting for performances, lectures and film.
University of South Alabama Laidlaw Performing Arts Center offers music, theater and dance performances by student, faculty and community groups and is home to Mobile Chamber Music.
The Mobile Arts Council is a nonprofit organization promoting the development of quality arts programs and cultural growth.
Performing Arts online
Find out more about events in the Mobile Bay area by visiting www.cityofmobile.org/calendar.
To learn more about the performing arts in the Mobile area, visit these websites:
University of South Alabama Laidlaw Performing Arts Center